MileHacker Logo
Sihanoukville Travel Resources

Sihanoukville Travel Resources

Sihanoukville South Coast, Cambodia Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Grab

    Useful for ride-hailing (tuk-tuks, cars) and food delivery.

  • PassApp

    Another local ride-hailing option, often with competitive rates.

  • Google Maps

    For navigation. Download offline maps for Sihanoukville and surrounding areas.

  • Google Translate

    For language translation. Download the Khmer language pack for offline use.

  • WhatsApp / Telegram

    For communication with tour operators, hotels, and friends. Widely used.

Useful Websites

  • E-Visa Portal

    The official Cambodian e-Visa website: Evisa.gov.kh

  • Cambodia Airports

    Official website for Cambodian airports, including Sihanoukville (KOS): Cambodia-airports.com

  • Royal Railway

    Royal Railway Cambodia official site for train schedules and booking: Royalrailway.com

  • Travel Blogs

    Search for recent articles on Sihanoukville for current insights.

  • Social Media Groups

    Facebook groups for local tourism or expats provide real-time advice.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

For a comprehensive overview, consider general travel guides that include sections on Sihanoukville and the coast.

Books about Cambodia

For history and culture, 'First They Killed My Father' or 'A Dragon Apparent' offer important context.

Local Publications

English-language newspapers like Phnom Penh Post might have local news or event listings. Check hotels or cafes for copies.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 117
  • Fire: 118
  • Ambulance: 119
  • General Emergency: 117 (response times may vary)

Medical Facilities

  • Sihanoukville Provincial Hospital: Main public hospital.
  • Private Clinics: Several cater to tourists (e.g., CT Clinic Sihanoukville).
  • Serious situations may prompt evacuation to Phnom Penh or Bangkok.
  • Keep your travel insurance details handy.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Look for documentaries on Cambodia's history.
  • Films offer visual insights into the country.
  • Explore cultural impact of development.
  • These resources deepen your overall view.

Music & Art

  • Explore traditional Khmer music and dance.
  • Seek out live performances.
  • Listen to traditional Cambodian music online.
  • Discover local art scenes.

Online Communities

  • Join Facebook groups for expats/travelers.
  • Gain valuable up-to-date information.
  • Ask specific questions from people on the ground.
  • Share your travel experiences.

Alerts & Advisories

Security & Safety Alerts

Crime Prevention

  • Be aware of petty crime (bag snatching).
  • Avoid displaying valuables openly.
  • Do not walk alone in unlit areas at night.
  • Secure your accommodation always.

Scams & Fraud

  • Be wary of unsolicited help or offers.
  • Do not fall for gem scams.
  • Avoid unregulated gambling invitations.
  • Research tour operators carefully.

Road Safety

  • Traffic can be chaotic; exercise caution.
  • Wear a helmet on motorbikes.
  • Cross roads carefully; look both ways.
  • Use reputable taxi/tuk-tuk services.

General Health Practices

Daily Health Tips

  • Drink only bottled or filtered water.
  • Wash hands frequently, especially before eating.
  • Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.

Eating Safely

  • Eat freshly cooked food from reputable vendors.
  • Avoid uncooked street food.
  • Ensure ice is made from filtered water.

Emergency Preparedness

Medical Emergencies

  • Know nearest hospital or clinic location.
  • Have travel insurance details handy.
  • Carry a list of any allergies or medications.

Natural Disasters

  • Be aware of tropical storm warnings.
  • Follow local government advice.
  • Ferry services may be disrupted during bad weather.

Local Transport Pointers

Tuk-Tuk & Taxi Tips

  1. Always agree on fare before starting.
  2. Use Grab/PassApp for transparent pricing.
  3. Verify currency (USD or KHR) for payment.
  4. Avoid shared rides with strangers at night.
  5. Keep small notes for payment.

Intercity & Island Travel

  1. Pre-book bus/train tickets, especially for holidays.
  2. Fast ferries connect quickly to islands.
  3. Arrive early for ferry check-in.
  4. Consider minivans for group travel convenience.
  5. Be patient with schedules; delays can occur.

Cultural Sensitivity

Dress Code

Modest dress at religious sites (shoulders and knees covered).

Taking Photos

Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially monks.

Market Interactions

Bargain respectfully and with a smile at local markets.

Helpful Tip: Hotel Business Card

Take a photo of your hotel's business card or write down its address in Khmer. This aids tuk-tuk drivers in finding your accommodation, especially with a language barrier.

Dive: Arts & Culture

Cultural Immersion

Arts & Heritage

  • Traditional Dance

    Seek opportunities to witness Apsara dance performances.

  • Khmer Music

    Listen to traditional Cambodian melodies and folk songs.

  • Modern Art

    Explore local galleries demonstrating contemporary Cambodian artists.

Culinary Journey

  • Local Cuisine

    Savor authentic Khmer dishes like Amok and Lok Lak.

  • Street Food

    Sample local snacks from street vendors, chosen carefully.

  • Cooking Classes

    Consider a class to learn Cambodian cooking techniques.

Community Engagement

Local Businesses

Patronize local restaurants, guesthouses, and small shops to directly contribute to the community.

Responsible Choices

Choose eco-conscious tour operators, especially for island trips, supporting sustainable tourism.

Simple Phrases

Learning basic Khmer greetings and thanks deepens interactions with locals and builds goodwill.

Digital Learning

Language Apps

  • Memrise: for learning basic Khmer phrases.
  • Duolingo: provides fundamental language lessons.
  • Audio lessons: practice pronunciation and listening skills.
  • Phrasebooks: for quick reference on the go.

Online Communities

  • Facebook groups: for expat and traveler discussions.
  • Travel forums: for asking specific questions.
  • Local insights: gain real-time advice from people on the ground.
  • Share experiences: connect with fellow travelers.

Practical Preparations

Health & Safety

  • Travel doctor consult: for vaccinations and prophylaxis.
  • Travel insurance: for medical emergencies and evacuation.
  • Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and Sunscreen.
  • Mosquito repellent: effective against local species.

Packing Essentials

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for tropical climate.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic.
  • Portable power bank for devices.

Important Cultural Note

A simple "Suosdey" (hello) and "Arkoun" (thank you) in Khmer can truly open doors to friendly interactions and a cultural understanding.